Bircher Muesli

We first came across Bircher Muesli for breakfast at the Grand Hotel Regina in Grindelwald Switzerland. They had a plain white version and another filled with a mixture of berries turning it pink. They were so delicious and comforting to eat yet giving the impression that they were really healthy for you.  It was created 100 years ago by Bircher-Benner to feed his clientele at his Lebendige Kraft Sanatorium. 

Ingredients
serves 4
60g rolled oats, left to soak in 60ml of cold water (alternatively apple juice) for 12 hours 
4 tbsp condensed milk (alternatively low-fat yogurt and honey)  
4 tbsp lemon juice  
2 large or 4 small apples, freshly grated (that's half the "original" Bircher recipe)
4 tbsp finely ground hazelnuts, walnuts  or almonds


optional toppings
60g fresh Raspberries, Blueberries etc
30g dried fruits such as raisins
30g chopped nuts 

Method
In a large bowl mix together the oats and water (apple juice). Cover and leave overnight in the fridge.  In the morning mix in the condensed milk (yogurt & honey), lemon juice and the ground nuts. Then grate the apple into the bowl and mix immediately before it turns brown.

If the consistency is too thick add a little milk to loosen. Taste and balance the sweetness with more lemon or honey depending on the ingredients.  Serve plain or mix in toppings such as the Raspberries and Blueberries and dried fruits and nuts.